Series at a Glance

Minnesota starters are second in the American League, and fourth in the
majors, with a 3.67 ERA. They’ve thrown six innings or more in 25 of their last
26 outings. The team’s overall ERA—bullpen included—of 3.32 tops the
majors.

“That’s what carries this baseball team. Has since I’ve been here,” Twins
manager Ron Gardenhire said.

Minnesota emphasizes pinpoint control. The strikeout-to-walk ratio of the
rotation is 5.14-to-1.

“You can count on those guys,” center fielder Torii Hunter said. “They go
out there, and they hit their spots. … They don’t try to beat around the
bush. First-pitch strikes. That’s what you have to do.”

Radke has allowed just three walks in 82 innings this season. The
32-year-old right-hander is 4-1 with a 2.79 ERA in his last seven outings. He
threw seven strong innings on Wednesday, allowing two runs and six hits for the
win in a 6-2 victory over the Indians.

“It’s just what this staff is all about,” said Radke. “That’s what this
organization strives for. Guys going out there, throwing strikes and keeping
the defense on their toes. Good things happen when you throw the ball over the
plate.”

Minnesota has won seven of its last 10 games, including a 9-3 win over the
New York Yankees on Sunday.

Michael Ryan tied a career high with three hits and drove in two runs for
the injury-plagued Twins, who were without shortstop Juan Castro (ankle) and
left fielder Shannon Stewart (calf). Jacque Jones went 3-for-4 for Minnesota,
which finished with 14 hits.

Minnesota expects catcher Joe Mauer (groin) back in the lineup Tuesday.
First basemen Justin Morneau (elbow) may also be ready.

The Diamondbacks had a five-game losing streak snapped with a 10-8 win over
Philadelphia on Sunday. Shawn Green drove in a season-high four runs for
Arizona, which opens a six-game homestand.

The Twins took two out of three last year in Arizona and are 3-3 all-time in
the series.